Reno, NV Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)
Key Facts
- Cap on inert ground cover
- 25% of required landscape area
- Exceeding the cap
- requires Administrator approval
- Applies to
- required landscape areas citywide
- Governing rule
- RMC § 18.04.805(c)(2)c
Summary
Reno's landscaping code allows artificial turf as ground cover, but caps it at 25% of the required landscaped area unless the city administrator approves more.
c. Decorative paving, artificial turf, rock, or other inert materials, up to 25 percent of the required landscaped area, unless the Administrator approves a different amount after consideration of the visual appearance of the site.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Administrative Code: Supplement 64 | Land Development Code: Supplement 5 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under Reno's landscaping standards, ground cover in a required landscape area can be living plants or, per subsection (c)(2)c, decorative paving, artificial turf, rock, or other inert materials up to 25 percent of the required landscaped area. The administrator can approve a higher percentage after reviewing the site's visual appearance. Non-living ground cover choices must also account for flammability and toxicity.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the 25% inert-ground-cover cap without administrator approval is a landscaping plan violation, enforced through the site plan review and permitting process rather than a standalone fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cover my whole front yard in artificial turf in Reno?
Who decides if I can exceed the 25% turf limit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Reno
How Reno compares: Most Artificial Turf-Friendly Cities·Compare Reno to another location·View the Nevada landscaping rules overview
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